There is something joyful about watching a kite climb into the sky. National Kite Flying Day, on February 8, invites people of all ages to head outdoors and fly a kite. February can be breezy in many places, and on a clear, windy day a simple diamond kite can soar. Kites are also easy to make at home with paper, sticks and string, making this a great activity for families and classrooms.
History of National Kite Flying Day
Kites are believed to have been invented in China more than 2,000 years ago. Early kites were made from silk and bamboo and were used for military signaling, measuring distances and testing the wind, as well as for celebrations. Kites spread to Korea, Japan, India and Southeast Asia, where many cultures developed their own kite traditions and festivals.
Kites reached Europe by the Middle Ages and were later used in science. In 1752, Benjamin Franklin famously used a kite to study electricity in thunderstorms. In the 1890s and early 1900s, box kites helped scientists measure weather high in the atmosphere, and the Wright brothers experimented with kites as they developed their first airplanes.
Today, kite flying is a popular hobby and sport, with kite festivals held around the world, from Gujarat's Uttarayan in India to Washington, D.C.'s Blossom Kite Festival. Who started National Kite Flying Day in February is not documented.
Why National Kite Flying Day Matters
Kite flying gets people outdoors and moving, and it is a gentle lesson in wind, balance and physics.
It also brings generations together. Grandparents, parents and children can all enjoy flying a kite, and making one together is a satisfying project.
How to Celebrate National Kite Flying Day
- Pick a good spot: choose an open field or beach away from power lines and trees.
- Check the wind: a steady breeze of about 5 to 25 mph works well for most kites.
- Make your own: build a simple diamond kite from paper, two sticks and string.
- Try a different kite: experiment with a box kite or a stunt kite.
- Join a festival: look up kite festivals in your area.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, teams based near a park can take a lunchtime kite break, or use kite-making as a creative team-building challenge. In classrooms, kites are perfect for science lessons on lift, drag and wind; students can design kites with different shapes and tails and test which flies best, recording results. History lessons can explore kites in China and Franklin's experiment. At home, families can build a kite from household materials over the weekend and test it in a local park. Never fly kites near power lines, roads or airports, and avoid flying in stormy weather.
Fun Facts About National Kite Flying Day
- Kites were invented in China more than 2,000 years ago.
- Benjamin Franklin used a kite in his 1752 electricity experiment.
- Box kites were used to carry weather instruments in the 1890s.
National Kite Flying Day FAQs
When is National Kite Flying Day?
It is observed on February 8.
Where were kites invented?
Kites are believed to have originated in China more than 2,000 years ago.
What is the best wind for flying a kite?
A steady breeze, roughly 5 to 25 miles per hour, works for most kites.
Is it safe to fly kites near power lines?
No. Always fly far from power lines, roads, trees and airports.